Cuba is an attractive vacation destination for many people, as it has all of the amenities you would ever want a vacation spot to have. You can sign up for Cuba vacations with last minute vacations or other types of vacation packages with your travel agent. Cuba is a tropical island that boasts warm temperatures all year round, and is an ideal spot for winter travel. Cuba vacations allow you to get out of the cold and enjoy the sun and heat like any other tropical destination. As with travel to any other foreign destination, it's wise to learn all you can about the country and follow certain tips when going on Cuba vacations.
Since the weather for Cuba vacations is going to be warm regardless of when you go, it's wise to pack mainly summer-type clothes. Your resort, restaurants and other buildings may be air conditioned, so if you plan on spending any amount of time indoors, a couple pairs of long pants may be a good idea. Take a look at your vacation package and try to estimate what types of activities you'll be doing so you can include any extra items you might need. Obviously, sunscreen and a hat with a brim are always good to bring on Cuba vacations.
If you plan on bringing any electrical appliances like dryers, curling irons or clocks on your Cuba vacations, check with your travel agent to see if you need an adapter of some sort. This type of information may or may not be covered in the literature of vacation packages. Cuba is on Eastern Standard Time. There is a list of prohibited items that you are not allowed to bring into the country that you should familiarize yourself with before leaving on Cuba vacations. Obvious items like weapons or explosives are prohibited, as are certain types of written literature and other items. Most items that you would bring on a regular vacation are fine to bring into Cuba, but it's always wise to check your vacation package information or with your agent to be certain.
A valid passport is also required to get in and out of the country, the same as with any other foreign vacation. When you're leaving Cuba, you may be charged a departure tax at the airport, which is another expense you should ask about before you go. You will have to obtain permits or other permissions to take antiques or art out of the country. If you choose to travel outside your resort on Cuba vacations, you can rent vans and motorcycles, or use a taxi or tour bus.
Renting a car in Cuba is one of the best ways to see the island but there are a few things to consider. Before you head out, get a GOOD map and make sure it's up to date. Don't let the gas get too low before filling up as you may find a lot of gas stations are either out of gas or closed. A great way to get insight into the island is to pick up a hitchhiker as it is both safe and one of the main ways the locals get around.
Donations in the way of basic daily necessities such as clothes, soap, shampoo etc... are always in demand however; drop these off at either hospitals or churches and avoid using them in lieu of monetary tipping at resorts.
Food in Cuba tends to be quite bland as there are not a lot of spices and while the water is generally safe, bottled water is advisable. This is not to say the food is inedible, but if you like basic tastes like salt and pepper or hot sauce, I would recommend packing your own.
Cuba vacations are a major source of income for the country, so it is usually quite safe. Taking precautions to guard against pickpockets or other thieves like you would anywhere else is generally enough to stay safe. You don't have to be vaccinated for Cuba vacations, and many of the hotels and resorts have nurses and health care services should you need help. You can also drink the tap water, but when in a tropical country it's always wise to stick to the bottled variety whenever possible.
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